The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2024 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2046421 · Published: January 1, 2024
This study aimed to determine if individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) have higher levels of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) compared to individuals without physical disabilities. The researchers assessed cervical spine mobility, palpated muscle groups of the head and neck, and evaluated jaw movements in both groups to identify differences in TMD. The findings indicated that the SCI group had worse range of movement and lateral flexion compared to the group without SCI, suggesting a clinical link between cervical and mandibular disability in SCI patients.
Healthcare professionals should consider the potential for TMD in individuals with SCI and incorporate assessments of mandibular function and cervical mobility into their evaluations.
Rehabilitation programs for individuals with SCI should address cervical spine and stomatognathic system interconnection to prevent or manage TMD effectively.
Future studies should explore the underlying mechanisms linking cervical and mandibular disability in SCI patients and investigate the impact of psychosocial factors on TMD in this population.